Middle East Programs Commentary & Analysis

Our blogs feature thoughtful reflections and opinions on current events in the Middle East & North Africa.

Through our Middle East Programs, the Atlantic Council works with allies and partners in Europe and the wider Middle East to protect US interests, build peace and security, and unlock the human potential of the region.

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Meet our blogs

MENASource

MENASource follows movements across the region and provides news and analysis on current events, including a platform for Middle Eastern perspectives, among others, on major issues—economic, political, security, cultural—that are at stake in the post-Arab Spring era.  

IranSource

IranSource provides a holistic look at Iran’s internal dynamics, global and regional policies, and posture through unique analysis of current events and long-term, strategic issues related to Iran.

All commentary & analysis

IranSource

Jul 8, 2022

Iran’s Supreme Leader threatened protesters. But Iranians aren’t listening.

By Anonymous

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei explicitly threatened a harsh crackdown on dissidents and proposed limits on the Internet and cyberspace, harkening back to the country’s bloody suppression of dissent during the 1980s.

Iran Middle East

MENASource

Jul 7, 2022

Libyans are protesting. What can they learn from the events rocking Tunisia?

By Karim Mezran

Tunisia is experiencing one of its most difficult moments since its independence from France in 1956.

Libya Middle East

Event Recap

Jul 7, 2022

From crypto winter to crypto spring: The challenges and opportunities of cryptocurrency in MENA

By Alexandra Kaiss

On June 28, the Atlantic Council’s empowerME Initiative held a virtual event on "Will the crypto winter cool the Middle East?" in partnership with ABANA.

Digital Currencies Economy & Business

MENASource

Jul 6, 2022

There’s uncertainty in Israel and within the Palestinian Authority. The US’s stabilizing role is critical more than ever.

By Ksenia Svetlova

When China and Russia are keen to deepen their influence in the Middle East and American allies in the region are doubtful about the future, it is up to the United States to provide the stability and firmness that is lacking in today’s regional landscape.

Israel Middle East

IranSource

Jun 30, 2022

Iran’s middle class has been eroding for some time. Now it’s only getting worse.

By Javad Heiran-Nia

With the weakening of Iran's middle class, the safety valve of the political system is eroding.

Economy & Business Iran

MENASource

Jun 29, 2022

Algeria has been isolated for years. Now it’s making a shaky return to the world stage.

By Andrew G. Farrand

On both the substance and presentation of its foreign relations, if it is to seize this moment, Algeria has much catching up to do.

Middle East North Africa

MENASource

Jun 28, 2022

Egypt is cozying up to Russia. It’s time for the US to step in.

By Shahira Amin

Egypt has, on several occasions, proved its mettle as a  mediator between Israel and the Palestinians. Such support would also ensure Cairo's commitment to continuing the economic and political reforms it has started which are in the interests of both the US and Egypt.

Middle East Politics & Diplomacy

MENASource

Jun 24, 2022

The Israeli government collapse was a curveball for Biden’s upcoming visit. But it shows the depth of the US-Israel relationship.

By Daniel B. Shapiro

President Joe Biden’s team was thrown a curveball on June 20, as the year-old coalition built by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Foreign Minister Yair Lapid finally gave way to internal pressures.

Israel Middle East

MENASource

Jun 23, 2022

Iraq’s sandstorms are threatening life in the Fertile Crescent. It’s time the Iraqi government takes a stance.

By Muhammad Baqir Muhyedeen

The Iraqi government and population can take the necessary steps to protect their country from the changing climate and safeguard Iraq for future generations.

Energy & Environment Iraq

MENASource

Jun 22, 2022

The immutable Muqtada al-Sadr loses a battle against Iran

By Andrew L. Peek

The June 12 decision by Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr to renounce his electoral victory and collapse the government formation process is a gift to Iran.

Iran Iraq
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